Holiday budgets ‘ring-fenced’ as most plan to spend same or more in 2026

Most UK holidaymakers are set to spend the same or more on travel in 2026, despite ongoing cost-of-living concerns or the need to save cash to leave as an inheritance.

 

Research shows that, despite the tough economic climate, holiday spending appears to be ring-fenced when it comes to financial planning.

 

The YouGov survey asked more than 2,000 respondents about their travel plans in the UK and overseas, and preferences for 2026, including their spending habits and the types of experiences they prefer.

 

It found that 26% of people will spend more on longer trips – six days or more – and 18% will spend more on shorter trips in 2026.

 

More than half (56%) will spend about the same on longer trips, while two thirds (66%) will spend roughly the same on shorter trips.

 

Just 7% said they will spend less, both on longer trips and short breaks.

 

The research – commissioned by Immediate, publisher of brands such as Radio Times, Good Food and HistoryExtra – also found that nearly a quarter (23%) plan to take one short break, while 22% want to take two short breaks, and 11% are aiming for three.

 

Meanwhile, 35% predicted they will take one longer trip, with 16% hoping to take two longer trips.

 

From a range of options, respondents’ top three most appealing travel experiences were city breaks (57%), beach holidays (42%) and all-inclusive holidays (37%).

 

The survey revealed that more than half of respondents (55%) would rather spend money on shared family experiences than leave a larger inheritance.

 

This trend is particularly pronounced among parents with older or independent children, with 68% saying they now feel more comfortable prioritising spending on themselves.

 

Furthermore, 70% of people plan holidays based around their interests and passions, with history and food the most popular sources of inspiration.

 

Ed Grenby, Radio Times travel editor, said: “The survey findings clearly show that holidays and passion-led pursuits are non-negotiables for the majority of people.

 

“What we see across all age groups is that an appreciation of the here and now, and an unashamed enjoyment of life, is something we all have in common.”

 

Immediate said travel providers which “align offerings with the budgets, passions and interests outlined by the research will be best placed to drive bookings”.

 

The total sample size was 2,087 adults and fieldwork was undertaken between December 9-12.

 

For more details on the research findings and to access the white paper, click here on immediate.co.uk/travel